Spotify SPOT

Launched in 2006 by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon, Spotify revolutionized the music industry by offering streaming with an expansive library that quickly became a household name. Known for its playlists and algorithmically curated recommendations, it made headlines in 2011 when it introduced its freemium model, allowing users both paid and free access to its service. The company's valuation soared past $50 billion in 2023, reflecting its dominance in the streaming market. Despite its success, Spotify has faced controversies over artist compensation and content moderation issues. Key figures in its leadership include Daniel Ek, who continues to steer the company as CEO, navigating both technological innovations and ongoing debates about the platform’s role in the music industry's ecosystem.